OCTOBER 15, 2004

Full News Archive

• Headline: Breakthrough in Malaria Vaccine Development. Impact: The success of the malaria vaccine inadvertently led to a worldwide boom in mosquito repellent sales. Who knew that saving lives would also make people more paranoid about pesky bugs?. Fact: Did you know that malaria was once so rampant that it was considered a rite of passage in some cultures? Spoiler: nobody actually wanted that 'honor.'.
• Headline: Tax Breaks for Multinational Companies Uncovered. Impact: This tax break for multinational companies and foreign gamblers ultimately led to a conspiracy theory that aliens are actually running the economy. Because, of course, who else would allow such a ridiculous situation?. Fact: Did you know that tax breaks for corporations are like candy for children? They get it, but it's always at the expense of someone else—like your poor local bookstore..
• Headline: Leaders of the Flock: Home Is Where the Sheep Are. Impact: Tom and Nancy Clark's sheep farm became the epicenter of a new hipster trend, leading to an explosion of 'farm-to-table' events that featured sheep's milk lattes. Yes, that’s right, sheep's milk lattes. Welcome to the future.. Fact: Did you know that sheep can recognize human faces? So, if you ever feel judged by one, it's probably because they think you're wearing last season's wool..
• Headline: On the Road to Ruins. Impact: The road trip through ancient Anasazi ruins inspired a wave of Instagram influencers to seek out 'authentic' experiences, which in turn led to a dramatic rise in 'not-so-authentic' tourist traps. Thanks, Anasazi.. Fact: Did you know that the Anasazi people mysteriously disappeared? Some say it was due to climate change, others believe they just got tired of tourists asking if they could take selfies with their ruins..